Angels reportedly release Hoying; OF to Korea

Outfielder Jared Hoying, who signed a Minor League deal with the Angels in November, has been released to pursue an opportunity in Korea, according to multiple reports.

Hoying will join the Hanwha Eagles of the Korean Baseball Organization on a one-year contract reportedly worth $700,000, including a $300,000 signing bonus.

Hoying, 28, appeared in 74 games with the Rangers over the last two seasons, batting .220 with a .550 OPS. He was outrighted off Texas’ 40-man roster in October and elected free agency, allowing him to land with the Angels.

The Angels are still looking to add a reserve center fielder this offseason, and Hoying’s departure subtracts from their internal depth, which is a bit lacking in the upper Minors. Mike Trout, Justin Upton, Kole Calhoun and prospect Michael Hermosillo are the four outfielders on the Angels’ 40-man roster right now, though they also signed Rymer Liriano to a Minor League deal earlier this month.